It has taken me awhile to realize that ricotta cheese is an incredibly versatile ingredient. For most of my life, I only ever encountered it in lasagna. But years of cooking and research has shown me that it is good for so much more. Now when I say this, I mean good, whole milk ricotta that is rich and creamy and moist, not the skim variety that can get a bit dry and leaden in … [Read more...] about Strawberry Ricotta Cake
farmers market
Sweet Citrus Sauce for Fruit
Serving fruit to a group of guests can present a challenge. We’ve all seen that desultory grocery store platter of chunked fruit languishing away at the lonely end of the buffet table. There’s always the carved watermelon basket with balls of melon, but that is way to much work for me. I have never been a fan of savory dressing for fruit salads – those mustard and poppy seed … [Read more...] about Sweet Citrus Sauce for Fruit
Roasted Green Beans and Peppers with Garlic
Every summer, I wait until the green beans at the farmers market look really plump and delicious, then I buy a big batch to take home, blanch and freeze. These are my Thanksgiving beans, for a traditional casserole or a simple steamed platter. I impress myself with my forward thinking ways. But sometimes I go overboard at the farmers market when everything is so fresh and ripe, … [Read more...] about Roasted Green Beans and Peppers with Garlic
Tomatoes Stuffed with Summer Squash
So it’s the middle of summer. You’ve been to the farmers market and loaded up your bag with beautiful vegetables. That whole box of yellow squash and lots and lots of tomatoes. Now what? I always get questions from friends about how to use squash (other than squash casserole) and for interesting ways to use tomatoes. And I am just as guilty. I buy and buy, wanting to soak up … [Read more...] about Tomatoes Stuffed with Summer Squash
Cherry Tomatoes in Cream
Beautiful cherry tomatoes in all shapes and sizes are such a temptation at the farmers market. Like little summer jewels. This is an old southern recipe, updated with fresh herbs, that is a perfect side to a grilled steak or fish. These tomatoes are quick to prepare, but luxuriant and rich, with a lightly caramelized cream finish. Use whatever type of … [Read more...] about Cherry Tomatoes in Cream
